If your child is unhappy with the appearance of their smile, you may be considering orthodontic treatment to help improve their confidence. However, before starting any braces or other treatment, your child’s orthodontist may recommend that they first receive a palate expander. An expander Stroudsburg can help to widen your child’s upper jaw, creating more space for their teeth.
This extra space can also help improve their smile’s overall alignment. Many benefits come from using an expander, which is why it is often recommended as the first step in orthodontic treatment.
What is a palate expander?
A palate expander is a device that is used to widen the upper jaw gradually. The expander is attached to the molars using metal brackets and bonded with dental cement. Once in place, the expanders are turned daily with a key to widen the jaw slowly. The process of enlarging the jaw can take several months, but it is important to follow the instructions of your child’s orthodontist to avoid over-expansion.
These are some of the reasons your child needs a palate expander:
Improving the appearance of the smile
Your kid’s smile is one of the first things people will notice about them. If their teeth are overcrowded or their jaw is misaligned, it can impact the way their smile looks. Expanding the palate can create more space for the teeth, leading to a straighter, more attractive smile.
Correcting an improper bite
An improper bite can occur when the upper and lower jaws are not properly aligned. This can lead to some problems, such as difficulty chewing or speaking. An expander can help to correct an improper bite by widening the upper jaw, allowing the teeth to align correctly.
Preventing future dental problems
Crowded teeth are more challenging to keep clean, leading to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Expanding the palate can create more space for the teeth, making it easier to brush and floss properly. This can help to reduce the risk of future dental problems.
Improving speech
An improperly aligned jaw can impact the way your child speaks. By expanding the palate, you can help to improve the clarity of their speech. The procedure can also help to correct a lisp. A lisp is a speech impediment when the tongue does not correctly hit the teeth.
These reasons indicate that a palate expander will be an excellent choice for your child if they need to improve their smile. That is not all; as a parent, you must know how to take care of your kid’s expander.
When the device is first put in, your child will need to eat soft foods for a few days to allow their mouth to adjust. They may also experience some discomfort and soreness, but this is normal and should resolve within a few days. You can give your child over-the-counter pain medication to help relieve any discomfort. Brushing and flossing around the expander daily to keep the teeth and gums clean is essential.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment for your child, ask your orthodontist at McGill Orthodontics about getting a palate expander.
